Putin Hails 2025 as Pivotal Year for Russia–North Korea Relations

Russian President Vladimir Putin called 2025 a year of special importance for Moscow-Pyongyang ties in a New Year message to Kim Jong Un.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has described 2025 as a year of “special significance” for relations between Moscow and Pyongyang in a New Year message sent to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

North Korea’s state news agency KCNA reported on Wednesday, December 24, that the message was sent on December 18, highlighting the growing closeness between the two countries.

In the message, Putin said the presence of North Korean soldiers in battles to liberate Russia’s Kursk region, along with the work of North Korean engineers on Russian territory, demonstrated the depth of friendship and cooperation between the two allies.

Russia and North Korea have significantly strengthened ties since 2023, expanding cooperation in defence, labour, and trade amid growing international isolation and Western sanctions.

Western governments have accused Pyongyang of supplying arms and personnel to Russia, claims denied by both sides, while analysts say the partnership reflects a broader realignment against U.S.-led alliances.

Putin said bilateral cooperation had reached a new level, stressing that joint efforts were contributing to regional stability and mutual strategic interests.

The message comes as Moscow and Pyongyang prepare to further expand military and economic cooperation in 2025, deepening a partnership that has drawn close international scrutiny.

The growing alliance underscores shifting geopolitical dynamics in Eurasia, with Russia and North Korea increasingly relying on each other to counter diplomatic and economic pressure from the West.

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